Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole McDaniel -Richards.
Hi Nicole , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I was a child into my late teen years I struggled with anxiety and digestive issues. Therapy helped a little and over the counter medicine helped with the digestive symptoms . I went to church when my Grandma visited and felt a little connection but not deep enough that it gave me long lasting peace. One day when I was a teenager, I was expirencing high anxiety and a nervous stomach. My grandfather gave me a cup of peppermint tea and an herbal supplement called Valerian Root . I felt 100 percent better ! All my anxiety disappeared. I felt a sense of calm in my nerves and my stomach. I thought to myself if these two herbs made me feel so much better , I need to find out more . My journey of healing body mind and soul started after this . When I was 22 years old I got a job at an Herb. Shop. I was obsessed with all things herbal and metaphysical. Although I was feeling better I still needed help . I took many classes in Herbalism, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nutrition, Iridology etc. Practicing what I learned with myself and my customers. I loved making teas for myself, family and my clients. Physically I was feeling better but there was still something missing . I took a class in hypnotherapy to help me with the mind and learn how deep seated beliefs can cause physical symptoms. This was helpful to myself and my clients . There was still something missing. The emptiness I felt in my soul. Traditional Religion was not working for me. I wanted to have a deeper connection with my Creator. I apprenticed with a Shaman for 2 years . That opened the door for me to connect more with nature and the Spirit within nature and all beings . From there I explored many earth based spiritual traditions. I wanted more help with my mind and anxiety so I practiced Buddhism and meditation for a few years .
It was ok but I wanted something deeper . My friend invited me to her meditation group . It was Raja Yoga meditation. The music and the chanting brought me deeper in meditation than I have ever gone. I felt the bliss and peace I was looking for . Yoga means union with God. I finally felt that union I was looking for. I feel peace and joy every day. It has helped me with my physical and emotional health. The herbs are a blessing that I can turn to assist myself and my customers with everything their body needs. Symptoms are a language and by listening to the body we can discover what it needs.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. There have been some significant life events that have sparked anxiety. I had a thriving tea business for awhile with many herb stores selling my teas . I was seeing clients regularly. I was working at several herb shops , seeing clients out of a chiropractor’s office , and selling my teas. I was also doing a lot of demos for a few herbal companies. It was a lot of work. When I moved and got a management position at Art of Health, I didn’t promote my tea business as much and the business slowed down. Looking back , I had my hands in too many things at once. When that happens it’s hard to put my full energy into my tea and consulting . Now I feel well balanced. I love managing Art of Health where I can sell my teas and see clients here all in one place . No more running around.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Clinical Herbalist which means I consult with clients . Educating them on the gifts that herbs have and how they can support one in their wellness goals .
I am a Compounding Herbalist meaning I create herbal tea blends that are functional and delicious.
I am a Certified Comprehensive Iridologist.
Meaning I use the iris as a tool to see ones genetic predispositions , strengths and potential challenges to get to the root cause of health imbalances.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Trust the process as it’s all divine timing .
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ArtofhealthLLC
- Facebook: Art of Health LLC
- Other: Tea Veda LLC on Facebook
Image Credits
Renee Bissel
